Office ergonomics training and a sit-stand workstation: effects on musculoskeletal and visual symptoms and performance of office workers

Traditional versus dynamic sitting: Lumbar spine kinematics and pain during computer work and activity guided tasks

Dynamic sitting may mitigate low back pain during prolonged seated work. The current study compared pelvis and lumbar spine kinematics, pain, and work productivity, in traditional and dynamic sitting. Sixteen participants completed three 20-min blocks of computer work and activity guided tasks in a traditional office chair or backless and multiaxial rotating seat pan while kinematics were measured from accelerometers on the low back. Pain ratings were recorded on a visual analogue scale every 10 min. Similar pelvis and lumbar kinematics emerged when performing computer work in traditional and dynamic sitting. Pelvis and lumbar sagittal and frontal plane shifts and fidgets were largest for dynamic sitting in the activity guided tasks. Buttocks pain was higher in dynamic sitting, but low back pain and work productivity were unaffected. Dynamic sitting increased spine movement during activity guided tasks, without negatively impacting lumbar kinematics, low back pain, or productivity during seated computer work.

Investigating the influence of keyboard inclinations on sitting and standing workstations

Given the growing global computer workforce, concerns exist about the escalation of computer related injury with Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) being one of the most reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among office workers. The optimal range of keyboard angles for sitting and standing positions based on wrist posture, forearm muscle activities and user preference as well as the keyboard location in relation to user position were analysed. 30 volunteers with an above 40 words per minute typing speed participated in this study. Result show that, although user prefer to use positive keyboard angle, the negatively tilted keyboard is more ergonomically friendly at both sitting and standing workstations, reducing muscle activity and awkward wrist posture while maintaining performance. The findings indicate that negative sloped keyboard might have the possibility to reduce the risk of developing CTS in office workers.Practitioner summary: This study determines the range of optimal slope of keyboard angle in a sit and stand workstation. Our results indicate a trend in the negative slope keyboard as an ergonomically friendly option for the intervention to Carpal tunnel pressure.

Work from home: Facilitators for an effective ergonomic work system

Previous studies on Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) have primarily examined the impact of Work-From-Home (WFH) on worker health and well-being, yet little research has examined the optimal implementation process of WFH programs. Work systems perspective suggests that organizational policies, leadership, and psychological factors collectively influence the success of organizational change efforts. Our study explored the roles of managerial/supervisory, psychological, and organizational policy factors in facilitating the relationship between employees' HFE awareness and their acceptance and satisfaction with the WFH arrangement. Using data from 3195 knowledge workers in the US who use computers as their primary work tool and have worked from home at least one day in the past 30 days, we employed structural equation modeling to test our hypotheses. Transformational HFE leadership and employees' general self-efficacy are pivotal in implementing ergonomic WFH arrangements. The combination of employees' HFE awareness, transformational HFE leadership, and adequate levels of self-efficacy may foster positive process outcomes (e.g., readiness for WFH arrangement, workspace design satisfaction) in WFH arrangements. Efforts that are coordinated across organizational levels determine the effectiveness of organizational change.

Active workstations: A literature review on workplace sitting

The purpose of this paper is to further understand current literature on prolonged sitting, sitting posture and active sitting solutions. This paper is divided into three sections: The first section (Part I) is a comprehensive overview of the literature on how a static prolonged seated posture can affect: spinal health, trunk posture, contact pressure/discomfort development and vascular issues. The second section (Part II) reviews and qualitatively compares the four working postures recognized in ANSI/HFES 100-2007: reclined sitting, upright sitting, declined sitting and standing. The final section (Part III) is a summary of research on active chairs that revolves around the two types of movement patterns: 1- sustaining continual movement over a range of postures, occasionally reaching neutral lordosis, and 2- maintaining high frequency and duration of daily light contractile activity in the legs (or lower limbs).

Impact assessment of e-trainings in occupational safety and health: a literature review

BACKGROUND

Implementing workplace preventive interventions reduces occupational accidents and injuries, as well as the negative consequences of those accidents and injuries. Online occupational safety and health training is one of the most effective preventive interventions. This study aims to present current knowledge on e-training interventions, make recommendations on the flexibility, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness of online training, and identify research gaps and obstacles.

METHOD

All studies that addressed occupational safety and health e-training interventions designed to address worker injuries, accidents, and diseases were chosen from PubMed and Scopus until 2021. Two independent reviewers conducted the screening process for titles, abstracts, and full texts, and disagreements on the inclusion or exclusion of an article were resolved by consensus and, if necessary, by a third reviewer. The included articles were analyzed and synthesized using the constant comparative analysis method.

RESULT

The search identified 7,497 articles and 7,325 unique records. Following the title, abstract, and full-text screening, 25 studies met the review criteria. Of the 25 studies, 23 were conducted in developed and two in developing countries. The interventions were carried out on either the mobile platform, the website platform, or both. The study designs and the number of outcomes of the interventions varied significantly (multi-outcomes vs. single-outcome). Obesity, hypertension, neck/shoulder pain, office ergonomics issues, sedentary behaviors, heart disease, physical inactivity, dairy farm injuries, nutrition, respiratory problems, and diabetes were all addressed in the articles.

CONCLUSION

According to the findings of this literature study, e-trainings can significantly improve occupational safety and health. E-training is adaptable, affordable, and can increase workers' knowledge and abilities, resulting in fewer workplace injuries and accidents. Furthermore, e-training platforms can assist businesses in tracking employee development and ensuring that training needs are completed. Overall, this analysis reveals that e-training has enormous promise in the field of occupational safety and health for both businesses and employees.

Increasing movement during office work at sit-stand workstations: A novel seating device to facilitate transitions

A novel active office chair (Movably Pro) was designed to facilitate frequent sit-stand movement 1) through auditory and tactile prompts and 2) with minimal-to-no work surface adjustment when transitioning. The purpose of this study was to compare lumbopelvic kinematics, discomfort, and task performance between the novel chair and traditional sitting/standing. Sixteen participants completed three separate 2-h sedentary exposures. Although participants transitioned every 3 min between sitting and standing with the novel chair, productivity was not affected. When standing in the novel chair, the lumbopelvic angles fell in between traditional sitting and standing (p < 0.01). Movement and/or postural changes that occurred with the novel chair reduced low back and leg discomfort for pain developers (PDs) (p < 0.01). All participants classified as PDs in traditional standing were non-PDs with the novel chair. This intervention was effective in reducing sedentary time without the time loss associated with desk movement.

Health and Work Performance Consequences of Working From Home Environment: A Nationwide Prospective Cohort Study in Japan

OBJECTIVES

The physical work environment while working from home (WFH) is a key component of WFH, which, if inadequate, can impair workers' health and work functioning. We investigated environmental factors in WFH and worsening of work functioning.

METHODS

A 1-year prospective cohort study was conducted involving 2530 Japanese workers who worked from home. Environment while WFH was assessed using binary subjective assessments based on existing guidelines. Existence of impaired work function was assessed using the Work Functioning Impairment Scale. We performed multilevel logistic regression analysis nested in the prefecture of residence.

RESULTS

Lack of room/space for concentration, lack of enough light and foot space, inadequate temperature and humidity, and use of a sitting table were associated with work functioning impairment.

CONCLUSIONS

An inappropriate environment while WFH can have a negative impact on workers' health.

Movement Behavior and Health Outcomes among Sedentary Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Sedentary behavior, which is highly prevalent among office workers, is associated with multiple health disorders, including those of the musculoskeletal and cardiometabolic systems. Although prior studies looked at postures or physical activity during work or leisure time, few analyzed both posture and movement throughout the entire day.

OBJECTIVE

This cross-sectional pilot study examined the movement behavior of sedentary office workers during both work and leisure time to explore its association with musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) and cardiometabolic health indicators.

METHODS

Twenty-six participants completed a survey and wore a thigh-based inertial measuring unit (IMU) to quantify the time spent in different postures, the number of transitions between postures, and the step count during work and leisure time. A heart rate monitor and ambulatory blood pressure cuff were worn to quantify cardiometabolic measures. The associations between movement behavior, MSD, and cardiometabolic health indicators were evaluated.

RESULTS

The number of transitions differed significantly between those with and without MSD. Correlations were found between MSD, time spent sitting, and posture transitions. Posture transitions had negative correlations with body mass index and heart rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Although no single behavior was highly correlated with health outcomes, these correlations suggest that a combination of increasing standing time, walking time, and the number of transitions between postures during both work and leisure time was associated with positive musculoskeletal and cardiometabolic health indicators among sedentary office workers and should be considered in future research.

Defining the lumbar and trunk-thigh neutral zone from the passive stiffness curve: application to hybrid sit-stand postures and chair design

Minimal data exist on the neutral position for the lumbar spine, trunk, and thighs when adopting a hybrid posture. This study examined sex differences in the neutral zone lumbar stiffness and the lumbar and trunk-thigh angle boundaries of the neutral zone, and determined if the standing lumbar angle fell within the neutral zone. Passive lumbar flexion and extension moment-angle curves were generated for 31 participants (13 M, 18 F), pooled from two datasets, with trunk-thigh angles available for 10 participants. The neutral zone was defined as the low stiffness zone from both the flexion and extension curves. Males demonstrated significantly greater extensor stiffness. Neutral lumbar and trunk-thigh angles ranged on average -22.2 to 0.2° and 124.2 to 159.6° for males and -17.8 to -1.3° and 143.2 to 159.5° for females, respectively. Standing lumbar angles fell outside the neutral zone for 44% of participants. These neutral zone boundaries may inform kinematics for hybrid chair designs.Practitioner summary: Adoption of a neutral spinal posture may be achieved through hybrid chair design, yet minimal data exists on a physiologically defined neutral zone. Using measures of in vivo lumbar stiffness, the lumbar and trunk-thigh angular boundaries of the neutral zone were defined for both males and females.Abbreviations: EMG: electromyography; MVC: maximal voluntary contraction.

A multicomponent quasi-experimental ergonomic interventional study: long-term parallel four-groups interventions

BACKGROUND

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are known as one of the main problems affecting the health of industrial workers and can lead to lost working days, functional disability of workers and wasting the financial resources of an organization. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluating the effect of ergonomic interventions on reducing MSDs and improving working posture in the in a foundry industry workers.

METHODS

A field multicomponent cross-interventional study was conducted on workers working in a foundry industry. In this study, 117 male workers were divided into 4 groups, including a control group, a group with specialized ergonomics training, a group with workstation intervention, and a group simultaneously undergoing training and workstation intervention. All 4 groups were evaluated during a period of baseline, 6 and 12-months follow- up. The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) and direct observations of working postures by using the Quick Exposure Check (QEC) method were used.

RESULTS

The results showed that the implemented interventions in the shoulder/arm, back and stress level were effective and the difference in the final score was significant among different groups (P-value > 0.05). In addition, the interventions led to a significant decrease in the QEC scores and musculoskeletal symptom scores in the neck, shoulder, lower back, knee, and lower leg regions among different groups (P-value > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results showed that workstation modification and training and workstation intervention simultaneously had a greater effect on MSDs and improving working posture compared to training alone.

Prediction of Work from Home and Musculoskeletal Discomfort: An Investigation of Ergonomic Factors in Work Arrangements and Home Workstation Setups Using the COVID-19 Experience

The COVID-19 pandemic provided an opportunity for office workers to experience work from home (WFH). The aims of this study are to investigate the prevalence rate of musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) and the work conditions of homeworkers during WFH as well as to evaluate the association and predicted risk of ergonomic factors and MSD. A total of 232 homeworkers completed questionnaires. Chi-square test and logistic regression were used to analyze the association and prediction of work arrangements and home workstation setups and musculoskeletal outcomes. The result showed that 61.2% of homeworkers reported MSD while WFH. Because of the small living spaces in Hong Kong, 51% and 24.6% of homeworkers worked in living/dining areas and bedrooms, respectively, potentially affecting their work and personal life. Additionally, homeworkers adopted a flexible work style, but prolonged computer use while WFH. Homeworkers who used a chair without a backrest or a sofa could predict a significantly higher risk of MSD. The use of a laptop monitor posed about a 2 to 3 times higher risk of suffering from neck, upper back, and lower back discomfort than the use of a desktop monitor. These results provide valuable information to help regulators, employers, homeworkers, and designers create better WFH guidelines, work arrangements, and home settings.

A first step towards a framework for interventions for individual working practice to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a key topic in occupational health. In the primary prevention of these disorders, interventions to minimize exposure to work-related physical risk factors are widely advocated. Besides interventions aimed at the work organisation and the workplace, interventions are also aimed at the behaviour of workers, the so-called individual working practice (IWP). At the moment, no conceptual framework for interventions for IWP exists. This study is a first step towards such a framework.

METHODS

A scoping review was carried out starting with a systematic search in Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, Ovid APA PsycInfo, and Web of Science. Intervention studies aimed at reducing exposure to physical ergonomic risk factors involving the worker were included. The content of these interventions for IWP was extracted and coded in order to arrive at distinguishing and overarching categories of these interventions for IWP.

RESULTS

More than 12.000 papers were found and 110 intervention studies were included, describing 810 topics for IWP. Eventually eight overarching categories of interventions for IWP were distinguished: (1) Workplace adjustment, (2) Variation, (3) Exercising, (4) Use of aids, (5) Professional skills, (6) Professional manners, (7) Task content & task organisation and (8) Motoric skills.

CONCLUSION

Eight categories of interventions for IWP are described in the literature. These categories are a starting point for developing and evaluating effective interventions performed by workers to prevent WMSDs. In order to reach consensus on these categories, an international expert consultation is a necessary next step.

Health education using the theory of planned behavior to modify ergonomic posture in hospital computer users: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent in those who use computers, and education using ergonomic principles may be helpful to prevent such conditions. The present study sought to identify how an educational intervention based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) may be effective for adopting healthy ergonomic postures.

METHODS

A convenience sample of 162 computer users working in a hospital setting in Iran were randomly assigned to intervention or control groups. The intervention group (n = 81) received six weekly educational sessions based on TPB principles, whereas the control group received no intervention during the study period. Both groups were assessed at baseline and 3 months after the intervention using a TPB questionnaire, rapid office strain assessment (ROSA), and Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the independent/paired Student's t test, chi-square, and analysis of covariance.

RESULTS

All TPB constructs in the intervention group improved from baseline to follow-up, indicating considerable progress compared to the control group (p < 0.001). More than 60% of intervention and control groups were categorized as high risk at baseline in terms of ergonomic posture measured by ROSA. This percentage was reduced to 21% for intervention group and increased to 65% in the control group at follow-up. Symptom relief was obtained for wrist/hands, lower back, neck, shoulders and upper back in the intervention group (all p < 0.05). The number of affected areas also significantly decreased in the intervention group compared to the control group three months after the intervention.

CONCLUSION

Educational programs based on TPB principles may be helpful in correcting ergonomic postures among computer users. Such interventions are recommended for worksite health promotion in that they may prevent the development of musculoskeletal disorders in staff.

Mechanical work and energy of sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit transitions performed with traditional and dynamic office chair designs

BACKGROUND

Adherence to sit-stand workstation usage has been shown to decrease post-intervention, with the reported reasons related to fatigue, cumbersome workstation adjustments, and focus.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the mechanical work and total energy required to perform transitions from a traditional office chair and a dynamic chair designed specifically for sit-stand workstations. The whole-body, thigh, and shank centre-of-mass (CoM) were evaluated.

METHODS

Fifteen participants (8 male; 7 female) performed three intermittent sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit transitions from the traditional and dynamic chairs. Kinematic data of the trunk, pelvis, and lower extremities were collected using an optoelectronic motion capture system and triaxial accelerometers. The change in total energy and work between the sitting and standing postures were evaluated for each CoM point. Lumbar spine range-of-motion was further assessed between chair conditions.

RESULTS

Chair designs facilitated opposite work and energy responses for a given transition. Transitions performed from the dynamic chair reduced the work and total energy of the whole-body CoM, by ±8.5J and ±214.6J (p < 0.001), respectively. The work and energy of the thigh CoM differed within transitions (p < 0.001), but the positive and negative components were similar between chairs (work =±0.18J, energy =±0.55J). The dynamic chair increased the total energy (±38.3J, p < 0.001) but not the work of the shank CoM (±1.1J, p≥0.347).

CONCLUSION

The required mechanical work and energy of sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit transitions was modified by chair design. These outcomes have the potential to address identified reasons for the disuse of sit-stand workstations.

Frequency of musculoskeletal complaints and their associated risk factors among computer workers

BACKGROUND: Computer-related work has become a part of the daily routine of workers of many occupations which leads to pains of multiple parts of the musculoskeletal system. OBJECTIVES: To examine the frequency and severity of musculoskeletal complaints of different regions of the body, and to examine the relationship between work-related risk factors with musculoskeletal complaints. METHODS: Three hundred and twenty-six computer workers were selected by non-probability purposive sampling from three clusters of computer sectors. The study design was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Respondents were interviewed and their height and weight were measures. Confidentiality was assured. RESULTS: The most common musculoskeletal complaints were shoulder (45%), neck (43%), and upper-middle back (36%) pain. The complaints were related to the female gender, increase duration of computer and using a computer at home. CONCLUSIONS: Musculoskeletal complaints and psychosocial stresses were related to increasing the duration of computer work.

Does active sitting provide more physiological changes than traditional sitting and standing workstations?

This cross-sectional study examined the physiological effects of two active chairs (AC1: had the feature to pedal and slide forward; AC2: was a multiaxial chair) compared to a traditional office chair and standing workstation. Twenty-four healthy participants computed at each of the workstations for 60 min. The active protocol was to alternate between a pedalling/side-to-side motion and sliding forward/front-to-back motion to the sound of a metronome operating at 40 bpm. The participants' physiological effects were recorded using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS); electrodermal activity (EDA) and a heart rate (HR) monitor for each collection period. Statistical analysis was conducted using a repeated measures analysis of variance for within-task and between-workstation comparisons. A Tukey's post hoc analysis was calculated for significant findings. Both active chairs significantly increased oxygenated blood in the gastrocnemius and participants' heart rate and EDA (stress) levels were affected slightly by task and time. However, participants felt more "productive" sitting in the control chair than in either of the active chairs.

Interventions for the management of computer vision syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

TOPIC

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of interventions for treating eye strain related to computer use relative to placebo or no treatment.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Computer use is pervasive and often associated with eye strain, referred to as "computer vision syndrome" (CVS). Currently, there are no clinical guidelines to help practitioners provide evidence-based advice about CVS treatments, many of which are directly marketed to patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis will help inform best practice for eye care providers.

METHODS

Eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified in Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and trial registries, searched from inception to November 23, 2021. Eligible studies were appraised for risk of bias, and synthesized. The certainty of the body of evidence was judged using GRADE. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were used when differently scaled measures were combined.

RESULTS

Forty-five RCTs, involving 4497 participants, were included. Multifocal lenses did not improve visual fatigue scores compared to single-vision lenses (three RCTs, SMD: 0.11; 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.14 to 0.37; p=0.38). Visual fatigue symptoms were not reduced by blue-blocking spectacles (three RCTs), with evidence judged to be of low certainty. Relative to placebo, oral berry extract supplementation for 4 to 12 weeks did not improve visual fatigue (seven RCTs, SMD: -0.27; 95%CI -0.70 to 0.16; p=0.22), and dry eye symptoms (four RCTs, SMD: -0.10; 95%CI -0.54 to 0.33; p=0.65). Likewise, berry extract supplementation had no effect on critical flicker-fusion frequency (CFF) or accommodative amplitude. Oral omega-3 fatty acid supplementation for 45 days to 3 months improved dry eye symptoms (two RCTs, mean difference, MD: -3.36 units out of 18; 95%CI -3.63 to -3.10; p<0.00001) relative to placebo. Oral carotenoid supplementation improved CFF (two RCTs, MD: 1.55 Hz; 95%CI 0.42 to 2.67; p=0.007) relative to placebo, although the clinical significance of this finding is unclear.

CONCLUSIONS

We found no high certainty evidence supporting the use of any of the therapies analyzed. There was low certainty evidence that oral omega-3 supplementation reduces dry eye symptoms in symptomatic computer users.

Schedules of standing and sitting directed by musculoskeletal discomfort in workers transitioning to sit-stand workstations: a cross-sectional study

Sit-stand workstations are growing in popularity, however limited guidelines exist regarding optimal schedules of sitting and standing. This was the first known study to observe sit-stand workstation schedules when postural change is based on maintaining musculoskeletal discomfort within 'acceptable' levels. Fourteen healthy adults new to sit-stand workstations completed computer-based work at a sit-stand desk for half a workday. Participants changed between standing and sitting postures each time discomfort reached the maximum acceptable threshold. On average, the amount of standing and sitting was greatest in the first standing (median 40 minutes, interquartile range 40 minutes) and sitting (median 30 minutes, interquartile range 115 minutes) bouts. Average durations spent standing and sitting were lower in all consecutive bouts. Stand-sit ratios indicated an equal amount of standing to sitting or somewhat less standing. The schedules had substantial inter-participant variability. Future studies should consider that optimal schedules may vary with regard to time and be individual-specific.

Ergonomic Assessment of Physical Load in Slovak Industry Using Wearable Technologies

The physical tasks of workers are demanding, particularly when performed long-term in unsuitable working position, with high frequency, heavy load, after injury, with developing damage of health or reduced performance due to advanced age. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) result from overuse or develop over time. Work activities, which are frequent and repetitive, or activities with awkward postures, cause disorders that may be painful during work or at rest. There is a new technology in the market, occupational exoskeletons, which have the prerequisites for minimizing the negative consequences of workload on WMSDs. We provided pilot quantitative measurements of the ergonomic risk at one selected workplace in a Slovak automotive company with four different workers to prove our methodology using wearable wireless multi-sensor systems Captiv and Actigraph. At first, the test was performed in standard conditions without an exoskeleton. The unacceptable physical load was identified in considerable evaluated body areas—neck, hip, and shoulder. Next, the passive chair exoskeleton Chairless Chair 2.0 was used in trials as an ergonomic measure. Our intention was to determine whether an exoskeleton would be an effective tool for optimizing the workload in selected workplaces and whether the proposed unique quantitative measurement system would give reliable and quick results.

Different sit:stand time ratios within a 30-minute cycle change perceptions related to musculoskeletal disorders

Regular standing interruptions to sedentary work are recommended, but their dosage is understudied. To measure perception variations associated with different sit:stand ratios, 16 people used six ratios (30:0, 27:3, 24:6, 21:9, 18:12 and 15:15) within 30-min cycles in their normal office environment. At start and end of each workday, study participants recorded their perception of 11 factors on a 10-point scale. Musculoskeletal discomfort in 10 body regions was measured before and after exposure to sit-stand ratios. Overall preferred ratios were recorded. Sit:stand ratio affected all perceived factors, with impact varying. Standing at least 6 min improved results most overall; however, individual perceived factors were least impacted by any of 30:0, 27:3, 24:6 or 21:9. Preferred sit:stand ratios were 15:15, 18:12 and 21:9. Typically, least liked ratios involved briefest standing (30:0, 27:3, 24:6) although two participants least liked 15:15. Understanding these variations contributes to appropriate standing dosage recommendations.

The effects of a new seat suspension system on whole body vibration exposure and driver low back pain and disability: Results from a randomized controlled trial in truck drivers

Through a randomized controlled trial, we evaluated the effects of an electro-magnetic active seat suspension that reduces exposure of a long-haul truck driver to whole body vibration (WBV) on low back pain (LBP) and disability. Among 276 drivers recruited from six trucking terminals of a major US trucking company, 135 eligible drivers were assigned to either having an Active Seat (Intervention: n = 70) - the BoseRide® electro-magnetic active seat - or Passive Seat (reference: n = 65) - a new version of their current seat (passive air suspension seat) - installed in their truck via block (terminal) randomization. Low back pain (LBP) severity, on a 0-10 scale and the Oswestry LBP Disability Index were collected before and 3-, 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-months post seat installation. LBP severity and LBP disability scores were significantly lower post seat installation in both groups. At 3 months, LBP severity decreased -1.4 [95% CI: -2.1 to -0.7: n = 46] for drivers in the Active Seat arm, and -1.5 [95% CI: -2.3 to -0.8: n = 41] for drivers in the Passive Seat arm. In a subset of drivers, WBV exposures were collected before and after the seat installation. WBV exposures significantly decreased post seat installation for Active Seat (p < 0.01) but not for Passive Seat (p = 0.15). While the new seat-suspension technology reduced WBV exposures, LBP appeared to be improved by multiple factors. These results were limited by the secondary prevention approach and the longer-term loss to follow up due to large rates of driver turnover typical for the industry.

The effects of using a footrest during computer tasks varying in complexity and temporal demands: A postural and electromyographic analysis

Prior research has found that office workers may not be fully utilizing their chair's back support. This may be due in part to cognitive demands or other psychological stressors. Not using the back support may increase the muscle tension and contribute to muscle fatigue and discomfort. Historically, footrests have been advocated to address anthropometric disparities in office settings. In this laboratory study, it was hypothesized that a footrest may facilitate the use of the backrest and mediate the biomechanical demands on the back and neck muscles, especially when cognitive workload is elevated. Twenty participants performed computer tasks, which varied in their complexity levels, both with and without an angled footrest. Using a footrest increased workers' use of a chair's backrest, increased pelvic rotation towards the backrest, and had a corresponding change in spine flexion. However, no changes were found in the sampled electromyographic activities due to the footrest.

Online supervised versus workplace corrective exercises for upper crossed syndrome: a protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background and objective

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) including upper crossed syndrome (UCS) are considered as the leading cause of work-related issues worldwide among office workers. Therefore, the present study aims to evaluate the effect of workplace-based versus online-supervised home-based corrective exercises among office workers with UCS.

Methods and design

To this end, 45 subjects within the age range of 30–45 years are randomly assigned to three groups in the present parallel-group, randomized control trial using a pretest-posttest design. These groups include the subjects who receive online-supervised exercise and workplace exercise containing three sessions of intervention for 8 weeks and the control group receives no intervention while performing routine activities. The primary outcome variables are neck-shoulder pain (NSP) and consequent sick leave due to NSP, followed by alignment, workability, and the surface electromyography of upper, middle, and lower trapezius (UT, MT, and LT), sternocleidomastoid (SCM), and serratus anterior (SA) as the secondary variables.

Discussion

The present study seeks to assess the effect of workplace versus online-supervised corrective exercise interventions among 45 office workers suffering from UCS. It is expected to improve and reduce the related symptoms including postural malalignment and imbalance muscles after 8 weeks of corrective exercises. If effective, the findings may lead to adherence and work performance among the office workers, and individuals subjected to UCS can use the benefits of an online-supervised intervention. In addition, the findings may be useful in different workplaces as the evidence for employers to benefit from the reduction in the related costs and side effects of work-related neck/shoulder disorders including work disability, productivity loss, time expense, social insurance, work absenteeism, and treatment costs. Finally, clinicians and corrective exercise therapists can consider it as a clinical based-evidence intervention for their further actions.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20200729048249N1. Registered on 5 October 2020 (https://en.irct.ir/user/trial/49992/view)

Identifying interior design strategies for healthy workplaces – a literature review

Purpose

It is widely recognized that interior office space can affect health in several ways. Strategic and evidence-based design, including explicit design objectives, well-chosen design solutions and evaluation of results, aid realization of desired health effects. Therefore, this paper aims to identify possibly effective interior design strategies and accompanying design solutions and to provide examples of effectiveness measures.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature sample of 59 peer-reviewed papers published across disciplines was used to collect examples of workplace design features that have positively influenced workers’ well-being. The papers were grouped by their health objective and design scope successively and their theoretical assumptions, measures and findings were analyzed.

Findings

Four main workplace design strategies were identified. Design for comfort aims at reducing or preventing health complaints, discomfort and stress, following a pathogenic approach. It has the longest tradition and is the most frequently addressed in the included papers. The other three take a salutogenic approach, promoting health by increasing resources for coping with demands through positive design. Design for restoration supports physical and mental recovery through connections with nature. Design for social well-being facilitates social cohesion and feelings of belonging. Design for healthy behavior aims at nudging physical activity in the workplace.

Originality/value

By drawing complementary perspectives and offering examples of design solutions and effectiveness measures, this paper encourages workplace designers, managers and researchers to take a transdisciplinary and evidence-based approach to healthy workplaces. It also serves as a starting point for future empirical research.

Computer workstation ergonomics: Current evidence for evaluation, corrections, and recommendations for remote evaluation

STUDY DESIGN

Literature Review INTRODUCTION: Computer use in the workplace has increased substantially since the start of the information age in the mid-1980s through 2020. Desktops, laptops, and tablets are essential tools for communication and project management. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many workers have transitioned to work from home (WFH) to sustain public health emergency guidelines, and it is anticipated that many WFH jobs will be maintained post-pandemic. The transition to WFH occurred rapidly without time to establish ideal workstations. Ergonomic assessments that were typically performed in person needed to be performed using virtual technology.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this review is (1) to describe the components of a computer workstation evaluation; (2) to offer suggestions for identifying computer workstation problems that may be contributing to the client's musculoskeletal (MSK) pain and symptoms; (3) to provide suggestions that may improve the safety and comfort at the computer workstation, and (4) to suggest a method of completing the workstation analysis virtually, without onsite in-person evaluation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

There is a paucity of peer-reviewed literature regarding computer workstation evaluations to be performed in person, let alone using a virtual method. The components of computer workstation evaluations have been recommended by regulatory agencies that survey injuries in the workplace. Prior to 2020, these evaluations were done in person at the office workstation. Modifications in data collection were needed to transition the analysis to a reliable virtual format. The remote method described provides a consistent approach that engages the client in the process.

Effectiveness of an ergonomics training program on musculoskeletal disorders, job stress, quality of work-life and productivity in office workers: a quasi-randomized control trial study

Objectives. The increasing prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), especially in the neck and upper limbs, among office workers is an important issue related to health and job productivity. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of an ergonomics training intervention on MSDs, quality of work-life and occupational psychosocial stresses among office workers. Methods. This quasi-randomized trial study was conducted in Isfahan, Iran in 2019. Outcome measures were measured in a follow-up period of 1, 3 and 6 months after the intervention. The results were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance. Results. The interventions performed had a significant effect on neck, left shoulder, right wrist and left thigh discomfort. These interventions also had a significant effect on social support and physical job demands. Significant changes were detected in quality of work-life, chance of growth and security, social integration in organization and social relevance of work in life, although these changes decreased in quality of work-life. No significant differences were detected in the other measured outcomes. Conclusion. The implementation of ergonomic interventions was effective in reducing MSDs in the neck and upper limbs. It is recommended to conduct continuous training courses to control the risk of ergonomic factors affecting body discomfort.

Ergonomics training coupled with new Sit-Stand workstation implementation influences usage

Currently, there is no guidance on the training programme approach that should be provided to new sit-stand workstation users to optimally integrate workstation usage patterns into their working day. The objective of this research study was to determine if a training programme could influence long-term usage of sit-stand workstations. Thirty-five employees from the University of Waterloo volunteered to participate in this longitudinal study. Two different types of training programmes were delivered: (1) an example from industry and (2) based on current literature. There was an influence of training programme on the frequency of sit to stand transitions made each day. Those who received the additional training programme also reported sitting less, standing more and used their sit-stand workstations more consistently day-to-day than those who did not. Practitioner Summary: A longitudinal study was conducted to assess the impact of training programmes on sit-stand workstation usage. A training programme based on current literature resulted in more consistent sit-stand usage than an industry example.

Effect of standing desk use on cognitive performance and physical workload while engaged with high cognitive demand tasks

It is clear that the cognitive resources invested in standing are greater than in sitting, but six of eight previous studies suggested that there is no difference in cognitive performance. This study investigated the effects of sitting and standing workstations on the physical workload and cognitive performance under variable cognitive demand conditions. Fifteen participants visited two times for testing sitting and standing workstations, and were asked to play two difficulty levels of Tetris game for 40 min while kinematic variables, CoP regularity, CoP SD, and cognitive performances were captured every 5 min. Results revealed a more neural posture in standing than in sitting, but using the standing workstation degraded attention and executive function. The CoP SD was 7 times greater in standing, but the CoP regularity was 1/4 in sitting, denoting greater attentional investment while engaged at the standing workstation.

Cardiac autonomic responses to different tasks in office workers with access to a sit-stand table - a study in real work setting

The aim of this study was to characterise the cardiac autonomic modulation of different office tasks performed by office workers with access to a sit-stand table. Heart rate variability (HRV) of 24 office workers was measured for two hours during three days in the last week of sit-stand table use. HRV indexes and the percentage of heart rate reserve (%HRR) were calculated during computer and non-computer work tasks while sitting or standing, non-computer tasks away from the work desk, and informal work breaks. All cardiac autonomic responses demonstrated a statistically significant interaction effect between the tasks (all p < 0.05) except for the logarithmically-transformed high frequency power (ln HF ms²; p = 0.14). Tasks performed while standing and away from the desk had higher sympathetic modulation; in addition, the observed higher %HRR demonstrated that these tasks were more physically demanding in comparison to other tasks. Practitioner Summary: Prior reports indicated benefits based on alternated body postures using sit-stand table. Nevertheless, the cardiac autonomic responses of different tasks performed by office workers are unknown. This cross-sectional study showed that different tasks stimulate the cardiac autonomic nervous system in different ways, which could bring positive effects to the cardiovascular system.

Effects of Time in Sitting and Standing on Pleasantness, Acceptability, Fatigue, and Pain When Using a Sit-Stand Desk: An Experiment on Overweight and Normal-Weight Subjects

BACKGROUND

Sit-stand desks have been suggested as an initiative to increase posture variation among office workers. However, there is limited evidence of what would be preferable combinations of time sitting and standing. The aim of this study was to determine and compare perceived pleasantness, acceptability, pain, and fatigue for 5 time patterns of sitting and standing at a sit-stand desk.

METHODS

Thirty postgraduate students were equally divided into a normal-weight (mean body mass index 22.8 kg/m2) and an overweight/obese (mean body mass index 28.1 kg/m2) group. They performed 3 hours of computer work at a sit-stand desk on 5 different days, each day with a different time pattern (A: 60-min sit/0-min stand; B: 50/10; C: 40/20; D: 30/30; E: 20/40). Pleasantness, acceptability, pain, and fatigue ratings were obtained at the beginning and at the end of the 3-hour period.

RESULTS

High ratings of pleasantness were observed for time patterns B, C, and D in both groups. All participants rated acceptability to be good for time patterns A to D. A minor increase in perceived fatigue and pain was observed in time pattern E.

CONCLUSION

For new sit-stand desk users, regardless of body mass index, 10 to 30 minutes of standing per hour appears to be an amenable time pattern.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Suggest Strength Training and Workplace Modifications May Reduce Neck Pain in Office Workers

OBJECTIVE

Neck pain is a burdensome musculoskeletal disorder in office workers. Workplace interventions aim to prevent and minimize the effect of neck pain and improve work quality. However, the summed effect of workplace interventions on neck pain in office workers remains unclear. This systematic review with meta-analysis and meta-regression evaluated the summed effect of workplace interventions on neck pain in office workers.

METHODS

We searched 7 electronic databases to January 2020 for randomized clinical trials. We selected studies, independently extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Meta-analyses were carried out along with normalized trend plots.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine trials, including 8 of high quality, met our inclusion criteria. Normalized trend plots indicate that neck strengthening demonstrated the sharpest decrease in pain scores. The results of pre- and post-outcome measurement of the effect of activity performance and workplace modification showed significant improvements in self-reported neck pain (P ≤ 0.001). Meta-regression was used to evaluate the effect of time, but it was not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

There is low-quality evidence that neck strengthening and tailored workstation modifications are effective at reducing neck pain in office workers. Further high-quality research methodology, including clinicians, is important to evaluate this summed effect.

Natural Patterns of Sitting, Standing and Stepping During and Outside Work-Differences between Habitual Users and Non-Users of Sit-Stand Workstations

Sit-stand workstations have shown to reduce sitting time in office workers on a group level. However, movement behaviour patterns might differ between subgroups of workers. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine sitting, standing and stepping outcomes between habitual users and non-users of sit-stand workstations. From an international office population based in the Netherlands, 24 users and 25 non-users of sit-stand workstations were included (all had long-term access to these workstations). Using the ActivPAL, sitting, standing and stepping were objectively measured during and outside working hours. Differences in outcomes between users and non-users were analysed using linear regression. During working hours, users sat less (-1.64; 95% IC= -2.27--1.01 hour/8 hour workday) and stood more (1.51; 95% IC= 0.92-2.10 hour/8 hour workday) than non-users. Attenuated but similar differences were also found for total sitting time over the whole week. Furthermore, time in static standing bouts was relatively high for users during working hours (median= 0.56; IQR = 0.19-1.08 hour/8 hour workday). During non-working hours on workdays and during non-working days, no differences were found between users and non-users. During working hours, habitual users of their sit-stand workstation sat substantially less and stood proportionally more than non-users. No differences were observed outside working hours, leading to attenuated but similar differences in total sitting and standing time between users and non-users for total days. This indicated that the users of sit-stand workstations reduced their sitting time at work, but this seemed not to be accompanied by major carry-over or compensatory effects outside working hours.

Mouse with your arm™: Facilitating forearm support using the chair armrest to prevent and mitigate musculoskeletal disorders

BACKGROUND

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) can be prevented by avoiding trauma caused by poor posture, compression, force, and repetition. Neutral postures are recommended to avoid MSDs.

OBJECTIVE

This study introduces Mouse With Your Arm™ (MWYA) methodology which promotes sitting back in a chair, using the chair's armrest for forearm support at relaxed elbow height, matching surface and armrest height, and keeping the mouse on the surface edge. This position allows optimal task chair use, facilitates movement and neutral postures, avoids compression and contact stress, and is effective in mitigating MSDs.

METHOD

MWYA was applied and measured in the field for more 23 years providing over 3,500 individualized assessments to integrate a participant's unique characteristics, reported health concerns, tasks, tools, and environment to achieve and sustain whole-body neutral and comfortable working postures.

RESULTS

Previous research has consistently recommended use of forearm support by a desk, apparatus, or wrist rest, and resulted in non-neutral, static postures and measured health consequences. By using armrests for support, MWYA avoids the potential of MSDs as can be caused by these previously endorsed postures.

CONCLUSION

By applying the five MWYA principles, computer users comprehend neutral posture and put forth the effort essential to creating healthy human computer relationships.

Internet of Things technology applications in the workplace environment: a critical review

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the use of IoT technology (RFID technology, sensor networks, wearable devices and other smart items) in office settings and its respective impact on the optimization of employees’ productivity and workspace effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews 41 relevant publications reporting IoT use in office settings to identify how this technology has been applied in office settings and what topics are mostly addressed in the literature; how IoT technology improves employees’ productivity; and what the benefits and risks associated with IoT use in the workplace environment are.

Findings

Two main areas of application of IoT technology in the workplace environment were identified. The first one concerns the influence of the physical characteristics of workplaces on aspects related to workspace effectiveness. The second one is employee-centered and concerns the use of IoT data to identify employees’ social behavior, physiological data and emotional estates associated with productivity. IoT technology provides real-time data with speedy information retrieval. However, its deployment in office settings is not exempt from risks. Employee workplace surveillance, re-individualization of the IoT data and employee refusal of IoT technology in office settings are the main risks associated with this technology.

Originality/value

This literature review categorizes IoT application in office settings according to two perspectives and highlights employees' attitudes, user-experience of IoT technology and the risks associated with this technology. These results will help researchers and workplace managers interested in the deployment of this technology in the workplace environment.

The need to accommodate monitor height changes between sitting and standing

Recently, the rate at which sit-to-stand workstations are being introduced into the workplace has seen a dramatic increase. Aside from adjusting the height of the desk when transitioning from sitting to standing, there is a lack of literature regarding the necessary adjustments to other equipment associated with the workstation. To better understand some of these limitations, 16 participants stood and sat at a sit-to-stand workstation while adhering to current Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Guidelines for Office Ergonomics. Transitioning between sitting and standing while adhering to CSA guidelines resulted in a 3.9 cm difference in monitor height relative to work surface between sitting and standing. Results from this investigation support the notion that monitor height adjustments relative to the work surface are necessary when utilising sit-to-stand workstations - with the implementation to practice message being that both sitting and standing configurations need to be assessed and accommodated in the workstation configuration. Practitioner summary: Limited guidelines exist in the necessary adjustments to equipment associated with sit-to-stand workstations. Transitioning between sitting and standing resulted in a 3.9 cm difference in monitor height relative to work surface between sitting and standing. This supports that monitor height adjustments relative to the workstation are necessary when using sit-to-stand workstations.

Workplace interventions for increasing standing or walking for decreasing musculoskeletal symptoms in sedentary workers

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among sedentary workers is high. Interventions that promote occupational standing or walking have been found to reduce occupational sedentary time, but it is unclear whether these interventions ameliorate musculoskeletal symptoms in sedentary workers.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effectiveness of workplace interventions to increase standing or walking for decreasing musculoskeletal symptoms in sedentary workers.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase, OSH UPDATE, PEDro, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) search portal up to January 2019. We also screened reference lists of primary studies and contacted experts to identify additional studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), cluster-randomised controlled trials (cluster-RCTs), quasi RCTs, and controlled before-and-after (CBA) studies of interventions to reduce or break up workplace sitting by encouraging standing or walking in the workplace among workers with musculoskeletal symptoms. The primary outcome was self-reported intensity or presence of musculoskeletal symptoms by body region and the impact of musculoskeletal symptoms such as pain-related disability. We considered work performance and productivity, sickness absenteeism, and adverse events such as venous disorders or perinatal complications as secondary outcomes.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles for study eligibility. These review authors independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias. We contacted study authors to request additional data when required. We used GRADE considerations to assess the quality of evidence provided by studies that contributed to the meta-analyses.

MAIN RESULTS

We found ten studies including three RCTs, five cluster RCTs, and two CBA studies with a total of 955 participants, all from high-income countries. Interventions targeted changes to the physical work environment such as provision of sit-stand or treadmill workstations (four studies), an activity tracker (two studies) for use in individual approaches, and multi-component interventions (five studies). We did not find any studies that specifically targeted only the organisational level components. Two studies assessed pain-related disability. Physical work environment There was no significant difference in the intensity of low back symptoms (standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.80 to 0.10; 2 RCTs; low-quality evidence) nor in the intensity of upper back symptoms (SMD -0.48, 95% CI -.096 to 0.00; 2 RCTs; low-quality evidence) in the short term (less than six months) for interventions using sit-stand workstations compared to no intervention. No studies examined discomfort outcomes at medium (six to less than 12 months) or long term (12 months and more). No significant reduction in pain-related disability was noted when a sit-stand workstation was used compared to when no intervention was provided in the medium term (mean difference (MD) -0.4, 95% CI -2.70 to 1.90; 1 RCT; low-quality evidence). Individual approach There was no significant difference in the intensity or presence of low back symptoms (SMD -0.05, 95% CI -0.87 to 0.77; 2 RCTs; low-quality evidence), upper back symptoms (SMD -0.04, 95% CI -0.92 to 0.84; 2 RCTs; low-quality evidence), neck symptoms (SMD -0.05, 95% CI -0.68 to 0.78; 2 RCTs; low-quality evidence), shoulder symptoms (SMD -0.14, 95% CI -0.63 to 0.90; 2 RCTs; low-quality evidence), or elbow/wrist and hand symptoms (SMD -0.30, 95% CI -0.63 to 0.90; 2 RCTs; low-quality evidence) for interventions involving an activity tracker compared to an alternative intervention or no intervention in the short term. No studies provided outcomes at medium term, and only one study examined outcomes at long term. Organisational level No studies evaluated the effects of interventions solely targeted at the organisational level. Multi-component approach There was no significant difference in the proportion of participants reporting low back symptoms (risk ratio (RR) 0.93, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.27; 3 RCTs; low-quality evidence), neck symptoms (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.32; 3 RCTs; low-quality evidence), shoulder symptoms (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.12 to 5.80; 2 RCTs; very low-quality evidence), and upper back symptoms (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.32; 3 RCTs; low-quality evidence) for interventions using a multi-component approach compared to no intervention in the short term. Only one RCT examined outcomes at medium term and found no significant difference in low back symptoms (MD -0.40, 95% CI -1.95 to 1.15; 1 RCT; low-quality evidence), upper back symptoms (MD -0.70, 95% CI -2.12 to 0.72; low-quality evidence), and leg symptoms (MD -0.80, 95% CI -2.49 to 0.89; low-quality evidence). There was no significant difference in the proportion of participants reporting low back symptoms (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.40; 2 RCTs; low-quality evidence), neck symptoms (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.41 to 1.08; two RCTs; low-quality evidence), and upper back symptoms (RR 0.52, 95% CI 0.08 to 3.29; 2 RCTs; low-quality evidence) for interventions using a multi-component approach compared to no intervention in the long term. There was a statistically significant reduction in pain-related disability following a multi-component intervention compared to no intervention in the medium term (MD -8.80, 95% CI -17.46 to -0.14; 1 RCT; low-quality evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Currently available limited evidence does not show that interventions to increase standing or walking in the workplace reduced musculoskeletal symptoms among sedentary workers at short-, medium-, or long-term follow up. The quality of evidence is low or very low, largely due to study design and small sample sizes. Although the results of this review are not statistically significant, some interventions targeting the physical work environment are suggestive of an intervention effect. Therefore, in the future, larger cluster-RCTs recruiting participants with baseline musculoskeletal symptoms and long-term outcomes are needed to determine whether interventions to increase standing or walking can reduce musculoskeletal symptoms among sedentary workers and can be sustained over time.

Using evidence to support the design of submarine control console workstations

PURPOSE

This paper outlines an approach to develop practical guidelines to support the design of submarine control console workstations.

METHOD

Guideline development was undertaken for 13 physical design criteria, provided to the research team. Data was gathered from four sources: a systematic literature review, relevant standards, population specific anthropometric data, and user focus groups. The systematic review included risk of bias, quality assessment and evidence synthesis.

RESULTS & CONCLUSION

The systematic review retrieved 43 relevant articles in relation to seven of the 13 design criteria. Very few high-quality studies were identified. The combined evidence available from each of the four data sources was collated and used to provide a set of guidelines for each of the 13 criteria, highlighting the importance of the use of multiple data sources. This approach has applicability beyond this study where the need exists to collate evidence sources beyond the scientific literature.

Effectiveness of workplace interventions in rehabilitating musculoskeletal disorders and preventing its consequences among workers with physical and sedentary employment: systematic review protocol

BACKGROUND

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the leading cause of work disability and sickness absence worldwide. The prevalence of MSDs increases with age, consequently challenging sustainable employability among the growing ageing workforce. Knowledge of feasible and efficient workplace-based interventions to rehabilitate MSD or prevent its consequences is therefore warranted. This systematic review will evaluate the effectiveness of workplace-based interventions on MSDs and its consequences among adult workers with physical and sedentary work tasks, respectively.

METHODS

We will search the following bibliographic databases: PubMed (including the database 'MEDLINE') and Web of Science Core Collection (including the databases 'Science Citation Index Expanded', 'Social Sciences Citation Index' and 'Arts & Humanities Citation Index'). Manual searches will also be performed. We will include randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs reported in English in which (1) participants are adult workers with MSD, (2) interventions are aiming at rehabilitating pain symptoms of MSD or preventing the consequences of MSD and (3) interventions are initiated and/or carried out at the workplace. The review will adhere to the 'Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses' (PRISMA) guidelines for reporting systematic reviews and the Institute for Work and Health (IWH) guidelines for workplace-based interventions. For the primary evaluation of the review, the quality assessment and evidence synthesis will conform to the IWH guidelines. Secondary evaluation will include a meta-analysis (unless the included studies do not allow this due to heterogeneity) and employ the risk of bias domains recommended by Cochrane along with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach on the studies with pain intensity as an outcome.

DISCUSSION

This systematic review will provide knowledge on effective workplace-based interventions among physical and sedentary workers with MSD. RCTs are considered the most powerful experimental design in clinical trials, but solely including these may be too restrictive to understand effective workplace-based interventions where randomised and carefully controlled trials (RCTs) are not always possible. In order to maximize practical relevance, the selection process will, therefore, include both RCTs and non-RCTs and the quality assessment and evidence synthesis will conform to IWH guidelines focusing on developing practical guidelines for stakeholders. The result of this work will form the basis for industry-specific evidence-based recommendations on effective workplace-based interventions for rehabilitation of MSDs and its consequences that will later be operationalised into concrete and user-friendly practical tools for workplaces.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number CRD42018116752 .

Characteristics of musculoskeletal disorders and satisfaction with in-house physical therapy clinics in office workers

BACKGROUND

Musculoskeletal disorders are not properly managed in office workers because of their busy work life. In-house physical therapy is a good way to manage the musculoskeletal disorders in office workers. Despite the numerous advantages of in-house physical therapy, the establishment and research of in-house physical therapy were insufficient.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose this study was to determine the characteristics of musculoskeletal disorders in office workers and to investigate their satisfaction with in-house physical therapy clinics and the associated factors.

METHODS

In this study, 664 office workers who used in-house physical therapy clinics were surveyed for characteristics of musculoskeletal disorders and satisfaction with in-house physical therapy clinics.

RESULTS

Of these office workers, the most common causes of damage were nontraumatic (36.8%) and the most common lesion sites were the neck (30.3%) and lower back (25.6%). In the empirical characteristics of in-house physical therapy clinics, basic thermoelectric treatments were the most common (46.8%). The satisfaction with in-house physical therapy clinic was generally high. In addition, the cause of damage and treatment contents affected treatment-related and functional return-related satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

In-house physical therapy, including therapeutic exercises and self-management education, is a good system to manage musculoskeletal disorders in office workers.

The effect of sit-stand desks on office worker behavioral and health outcomes: A scoping review

This scoping review examines the effects of sit-stand desks (SSDs) on six domains: behavior (e.g. time sitting and standing), physiological, work performance, psychological, discomfort, and posture. Fifty-three articles met criteria. We determined the percentage of significant results for each domain. Forty-seven studies were experimental trials. Sample sizes ranged from six to 231 participants. Follow-up time-frames ranged from one day to one year. Sixty-one percent of behavioral (24 studies), 37% of physiological (28 studies), 7% of work performance (23 studies), 31% of psychological (11 studies), 43% of discomfort (22 studies), and 18% of posture domain results (4 studies) were significant. We conclude that SSDs effectively change behaviors, but these changes only mildly effect health outcomes. SSDs seem most effective for discomfort and least for productivity. Further study is needed to examine long-term effects, and to determine clinically appropriate dosage and workstation setup.

Identifying musculoskeletal issues and associated risk factors among clay brick kiln workers

The present study is aimed to investigate the musculoskeletal issues and association of risk-factors with these problems among manual brick kiln workers. A modified Nordic Questionnaire was administered among 376 traditional brick kiln workers to collect data. Logistic regression was used to determine the association between musculoskeletal problems and risk-factors. Majority of workers (76.19%) involved in mould evacuating task reported wrist issues whereas lower back issues were reported by 62.35% of spading task workers. Age was a factor associated with musculoskeletal symptoms in the majority of the body regions. Gender was significantly associated with lower back (OR=3.71, CI: 1.51-9.11) MSDs. Spading task was associated with the wrist (OR=2.42, CI: 51.03-5.66), and lower back (OR=3.97, CI: 1.75-8.98) problems. Mould filling was a contributing factor for the wrist (OR=4.27, CI: 1.81-10.09) and knee (OR=6.88, CI: 2.40-19.70) issues. MSDs in wrist (OR=12.22, CI: 4.82-30.98) and fingers (OR=3.57, CI: 1.23-10.36) were significant in mould evacuating workers. Workers having less than 5 yr of experience were less prone to the neck (OR= 0.03, CI: 0.00-0.72) and upper back (OR=0.08, CI: 0.01-0.76) MSDs. For prevention of problems, ergonomic interventions such as workers' training, use of protecting aids, modification in hand tools and work practices are needed.

Consistency of Sedentary Behavior Patterns among Office Workers with Long-Term Access to Sit-Stand Workstations

INTRODUCTION

Sit-stand workstations are a popular intervention to reduce sedentary behavior (SB) in office settings. However, the extent and distribution of SB in office workers long-term accustomed to using sit-stand workstations as a natural part of their work environment are largely unknown. In the present study, we aimed to describe patterns of SB in office workers with long-term access to sit-stand workstations and to determine the extent to which these patterns vary between days and workers.

METHODS

SB was objectively monitored using thigh-worn accelerometers for a full week in 24 office workers who had been equipped with a sit-stand workstation for at least 10 months. A comprehensive set of variables describing SB was calculated for each workday and worker, and distributions of these variables between days and workers were examined.

RESULTS

On average, workers spent 68% work time sitting [standard deviation (SD) between workers and between days (within worker): 10.4 and 18.2%]; workers changed from sitting to standing/walking 3.2 times per hour (SDs 0.6 and 1.2 h-1); with bouts of sitting being 14.9 min long (SDs 4.2 and 8.5 min). About one-third of the workers spent >75% of their workday sitting. Between-workers variability was significantly different from zero only for percent work time sitting, while between-days (within-worker) variability was substantial for all SB variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Office workers accustomed to using sit-stand workstations showed homogeneous patterns of SB when averaged across several days, except for percent work time seated. However, SB differed substantially between days for any individual worker. The finding that many workers were extensively sedentary suggests that just access to sit-stand workstations may not be a sufficient remedy against SB; additional personalized interventions reinforcing use may be needed. To this end, differences in SB between days should be acknowledged as a potentially valuable source of variation.

Influence of the wearable posture correction sensor on head and neck posture: Sitting and standing workstations

BACKGROUND

Flexed head and neck postures are associated with the development of neck pain in the office environment. There is little evidence regarding whether a wearable posture sensor would improve the head and neck postures of office workers.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the wearable posture sensor on the posture and physical demands on the head and neck during office work.

METHODS

Nineteen participants performed a typing task with and without the wearable sensor in the sitting and standing positions. They were allowed to adjust their workstation during the experiment based on a psychophysical method. The flexion angles of the head and neck, the gravitational moment on the neck, and the positions of the workstation components were measured.

RESULTS

On average, participants with the wearable sensor had 8% lower neck flexion angles and 14% lower gravitational moments on the neck than those of participants without the wearable sensor. The effect of the wearable sensor on reducing postural stress of the neck was more significant when using the standing workstation compared to the sitting workstation.

CONCLUSIONS

The wearable posture sensor could be an effective tool to alleviate the postural stress of the neck in the office setting.

Feasibility and impact of sit-stand workstations with and without exercise in office workers at risk of low back pain: A pilot comparative effectiveness trial

The aim of this study was to compare the feasibility and impact of sit-stand workstations plus advice, with or without exercise, on back pain and sitting time in office workers at risk of low back pain (LBP). Eligible participants (n = 29/169; 17% overall) were randomized to receive a sit-stand workstation and advice with (n = 16) or without (n = 13) progressive resistance exercise training for 4-weeks. Feasibility (recruitment, acceptability, adherence) and impact (LBP severity during a standardized standing task, workplace-sitting time) were assessed. Intervention acceptability (87.5% very satisfied) was good and adherence (60% completed all 12 exercise sessions) was satisfactory. Maximum LBP severity (mean difference of -1.3 (-2.0, -0.6) and workplace sitting time (82.7-99.3 min/8-hr workday reduction) were similarly reduced in both groups. The introduction of a sit-stand workstation with advice was feasible and achieved similar outcomes for LBP and workplace sitting time when administered with or without exercise.

The effects of sedentary behaviour interventions on work-related productivity and performance outcomes in real and simulated office work: A systematic review

This review examined the impact of environmental, behavioral, and combined interventions to reduce occupational sedentary behaviour on work performance and productivity outcomes. Productivity outcomes were defined as variables assessing work-related tasks (e.g., typing, mouse), whereas performance outcomes were categorized as any variables assessing cognition that did not mimic work-related tasks. Nine databases were searched for articles published up to January 2018. Sixty-three studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria: 45 examined a productivity outcome (i.e., typing, mouse, work-related tasks, and absenteeism), 38 examined a performance outcome (i.e., memory, reading comprehension, mathematics, executive function, creativity, psychomotor function, and psychobiological factors), and 30 examined a self-reported productivity/performance outcome (i.e., presenteeism or other self-reported outcome). Overall, standing interventions do not appear to impact productivity/performance outcomes, whereas walking and cycling interventions demonstrate mixed null/negative associations for productivity outcomes. Hence, standing interventions to reduce occupational sedentary behaviour could be implemented without negatively impacting productivity/performance outcomes.

The effects of introducing electric adjustable height desks in an office setting on workplace physical activity levels: A randomised control field trial

BACKGROUND

Electric adjustable height desks (EAHD) have been promoted as an opportunity for desk based workers to stand at work but there is limited evidence that they have an effect on light physical activity.

OBJECTIVE

The main objective was to determine if there would be a change in light physical activity with the introduction of EAHD. The secondary objective was to assess if there was an associated change in leisure time activity.

METHODS

Activity levels were measured by step counts, self-reported activity levels and pre- and post-trial recall levels. Statistical analysis of the data was performed with the software R. Generalised linear models were fitted to the data. A Poisson regression was used for count data. Statistical hypotheses were deemed significant if their p values were less than 0.05.

RESULTS

There was a significant (p < 0.001) effect on step counts associated with allocation of EAHD and a significant (p < 0.001) increase in self-reported activity for the Intervention (EAHD) group. Having an EAHD was associated with increased activity during leisure (p = 0.039).

CONCLUSIONS

Activity levels, especially light physical activity, were significantly increased with the allocation of an electric adjustable height desk. This pilot study showed that the environmental change of introduction of electric adjustable height desks into an office workplace can increase physical activity and reduce sitting durations. There is limited evidence that the increase in work activity has a positive impact on leisure time activity.

Exploring the musculoskeletal problems and associated risk-factors among brick kiln workers

Purpose

Prolonged working in repetitive and awkward postures can result in musculoskeletal disorders among workers involved in labour-intensive jobs like those of brick kiln workers. Unlike other labour-intensive sectors, workers in this particular sector have a lack of awareness about musculoskeletal problems. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to explore musculoskeletal issues and associated risk-factors among brick kiln workers.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was conducted among 217 male and 111 female workers aged between 17 and 53 years. They were employed in traditional brick kiln units situated in Rajasthan, India. Postures were analysed by Rapid Upper Limb Assessment and Rapid Entire Body Assessment methods. Binary logistic regression was used to find the association between musculoskeletal problems and risk-factors.

Findings

For the mould evacuating task, wrist (76.2 per cent) and lower back (56 per cent) issues were the most frequently reported musculoskeletal problems, while in spading task, lower back (62.4 per cent) and shoulder (57.7 per cent) problems were prominent. Musculoskeletal symptoms in one or more body regions were associated with personal and work-related factors including the type of task and experience.

Research limitations/implications

Kiln workers are exposed to high musculoskeletal and postural risks, particularly in spading and mould filling tasks. To reduce these risks, ergonomic interventions are needed.

Originality/value

It is recognised that the musculoskeletal health of brick kiln workers is a cause for concern. The present study provides the evidence of the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms experienced by brick kiln workers and the association of symptoms with various risk-factors, which has not been addressed in previous studies.